Frequently Asked Questions

What are some things to look for in a Medical Equipment Company?

    • A call back within 24 hours of any questions that you may have
    • Respiratory Therapists that are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
    • Certified Rehab Specialists to evaluate your wheelchair needs when appropriate
    • A company that offers free delivery
    • Respect and “old fashioned” customer service where instead of feeling like a
       hassle, you feel like you are appreciated for calling
    • A company that will still pull out the catalogs and special order items or even
       give you the names of other companies to help you along in your search for
       assistance
    • Education on equipment, coverage information, outside community resources

FAQ

Q:  If I have a prescription, will Medicare or my Insurance cover the cost of the item?

A:  Medicare and Insurance companies will only cover certain items that they designate are "medically necessary".  Each Insurance company has its own guidelines to determine if something will be covered.  This means that regardless of if the doctor prescribes the item, it is still up to Medicare or the Insurance company as to whether or not it will be paid.

Q:  What if I called my Insurance company or Medicare and they already stated it was covered?

A:  There are many factors involved besides whether the Insurance Company designates an item "medically necessary".  In addition, the patient needs to qualify for the item (again determined by Medicare or the Insurance company) with a qualifying diagnosis.  Also, there are certain requirements that Integrated Medical must adhere to and obtain prior to an item being paid for by the Insurance company or Medicare.

Q:  I know I will need this item for a long time, so will Medicare or my Insurance company pay for the item instead of renting it?

A:  Medicare and most Insurance companies have contracts that states which items are rented and which item are purchased.  Neither the patient nor Integrated Medical has very much say in the manner for which an item is paid.  There may be some extreme circumstances that call for modifying if an item is purchased or rented, but those cases are far and few between.

Q:  Was the commercial on television correct when it stated that there would be no out of pocket expense to me?

A:  No medical equipment company can guarantee that the customer will not have to pay.  That is all dependent on if your particular insurance company covers the item, whether or not your condition/diagnosis qualifies you, whether there is an authorization required and finally, whether or not you have a co-pay or deductible.  Too often, we talk with people that have been fooled into thinking that something will be covered at 100% only to find out months later that the insurance company does not cover that item.  At that point, the medical equipment company often will not let the customer return the item since it is now considered “used” and the customer is stuck with a large bill.  To be sure of any coverage guidelines or any questions about Medical equipment, contact Integrated Medical and do you homework!